PRF Launches Operação Semana Santa 2025 For Road Safety

The Polícia Rodoviária Federal (PRF) kicked off its Operação Semana Santa 2025 at midnight on Thursday, April 17, 2025, with a focus on enhancing road safety and preventing accidents during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. This year, the operation will run until 11:59 PM on Monday, April 21, extending an extra day due to the coincidence of the Tiradentes holiday falling on the same Monday.

As the holiday period approaches, the PRF anticipates a significant increase in traffic on federal highways, particularly as families travel to celebrate Easter. The agency has mobilized additional resources to ensure safety on the roads, with a particular emphasis on high-traffic areas known for their accident rates. In 2024, the four days of the operation recorded 93 accidents, resulting in 102 injuries and five fatalities on the federal highways of Santa Catarina alone.

To mitigate risks, the PRF will enhance inspections in areas where statistics indicate a higher probability of serious accidents. This includes targeting dangerous behaviors such as speeding, improper overtaking, and driving under the influence of alcohol. According to the PRF, "We will intensify inspections where there is a historical data of higher accident occurrences, focusing on risky behaviors like speeding and alcohol consumption while driving," said Fernando Oliveira, the PRF’s director-general.

Traffic restrictions will be implemented for oversized vehicles on single-lane highways during specific times: on Thursday, April 17, from 4 PM to 10 PM; on Friday, April 18, from 6 AM to noon; and on Monday, April 21, from 4 PM to 10 PM. These restrictions aim to improve traffic flow and reduce the likelihood of accidents. Non-compliance with these regulations will result in a medium infraction penalty, including a fine of R$ 130.16, four points on the driver’s license, and potential vehicle detention.

In addition to enforcement, the PRF is committed to educating drivers about safe travel practices. Motorists are encouraged to plan their trips in advance and ensure their vehicles are in good condition. This includes checking essential equipment and documentation, adhering to speed limits, and ensuring all passengers wear seat belts. The PRF emphasizes that children under the age of seven and a half must be secured in appropriate child safety seats.

The agency also reminds drivers to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead to avoid rear-end collisions, particularly in cases of sudden braking. Caution is especially important in urban areas where pedestrians may be present. In adverse weather conditions, such as rain, drivers should reduce their speed and increase the distance from other vehicles, and if necessary, pull over safely.

As part of its educational outreach, the PRF will utilize technology to enhance monitoring and enforcement. The use of fixed and mobile speed cameras will be increased, and officers will be stationed at strategic points along the highways to catch violators in real-time. The PRF has reported over 1.7 million instances of speeding violations this year alone, highlighting the need for vigilance on the roads.

In January and February of 2025, the PRF documented 280 injuries and 96 fatalities among drivers who were not wearing seat belts, underscoring the importance of this safety measure. The agency aims to reduce these alarming statistics through its ongoing efforts, which also include combating illegal activities such as drug trafficking and the illegal transport of firearms.

For travelers, the PRF recommends several best practices: plan your journey and vehicle maintenance, ensure all necessary documents are in order, utilize seat belts for all passengers, and remain vigilant about speed limits and road signs. Motorcyclists, in particular, should wear helmets and maintain a safe distance from larger vehicles to ensure their safety.

In summary, the Operação Semana Santa 2025 is not only about enforcement but also about fostering a culture of safety and responsibility among drivers. The PRF encourages all road users to be proactive in ensuring their safety and the safety of others during this busy holiday period. With the right precautions and awareness, the hope is to see a reduction in accidents and injuries on Brazil's highways.

For emergency assistance, drivers can contact the PRF's emergency number at 191. Additionally, for real-time traffic updates, the PRF advises following their official Twitter account.